Treasury Frees Up West Bank Assets: Sanctions Saga Takes a Turn
Published Date: 1/29/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Treasury’s OFAC just took some folks off their special sanctions list tied to the West Bank. This means their property and money are no longer blocked, so they can use their assets again. If you were watching these changes, now’s the time to update your records and plans!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Delisting Restores Access to Assets
The Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) removed certain persons from the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) under West Bank sanctions authorities. Their property and interests in property that had been blocked are no longer blocked, and those persons can use their assets again.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11896 — Notice of OFAC Sanctions Action
On June 10, 2026, the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blocked the property of certain people by adding them to a special sanctions list. This means U.S. folks can’t do business with these individuals, and any money or property they have under U.S. control is frozen. These actions help keep bad actors from using the U.S. financial system.
2026-11761 — Publication of the List of Medical Devices Requiring Specific Authorization for the North Korea Sanctions Regulations
Starting June 11, 2026, certain medical devices can’t be sent to North Korea without special permission from the U.S. Treasury. This new list affects exporters who now need to get specific approval before shipping these devices, helping keep sanctions strong while allowing some medical aid. If you’re in the business of sending medical gear, watch your paperwork and timing to avoid costly delays!
2026-11601 — Publication of International Criminal Court-Related Sanctions Regulations Web General License 11
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2026-11616 — Publication of Venezuela Sanctions Regulations Web General Licenses 48A and 49A
The U.S. Treasury just made official two updated licenses (48A and 49A) that let certain U.S. businesses provide goods and services related to Venezuela’s oil, gas, and electricity sectors, even though sanctions are in place. These changes help companies work with Venezuela’s government and its oil giant PdVSA under clear rules, starting from March 13, 2026. If you’re involved in these industries, this means new opportunities with some important contract and payment rules to follow.
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